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Video Game Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Highland Park, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Schaumburg, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Naperville, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Evanston, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Varsity Tutors

Video Game Design Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Video Game Design Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of game ... programming for games, art asset creation, and playtesting methodology. Ability to explain game ...

Actalent

Software Simulation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Software Simulation Engineer Our Software & Digital Transformation organization is seeking an ... This position is ideal for someone with experience in video game development, game design ...

Actalent

Software Simulation Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Software Simulation Engineer Our Software & Digital Transformation organization is seeking an ... This position is ideal for someone with experience in video game development, game design ...

Progressive Gaming

Senior Game Mathematician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Overview Do you love video games and thought 'hey, I can make that!' Well, here is your chance! At ... Strong programming knowledge (C++, C#, or similar language). * Can make the sound of one hand ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsVideo Game Software Engineer JobsVideo Game Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Video Game Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$154.6K

$178.9K

How much do video game software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for video game software engineer in Chicago, IL is $154,643.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,200.00 and $178,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a video game software engineer do?

As a video game software engineer, you program video games for a computer or console system. You collaborate with designers who create a concept and design the look and feel of the game, write code to create the characters and mechanics, and implement troubleshooting tools and processes to test for bugs before the game’s release. If necessary, you fix any issues in the code while sticking to project deadlines. You carry out your duties and responsibilities alongside a team of gaming designers, programmers, and project managers to help the project move smoothly from start to finish.

What does a video game software engineer do?

A Video Game Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the software that powers video games. They write code to implement game mechanics, graphics, artificial intelligence, and user interfaces. These engineers collaborate closely with game designers, artists, and other team members to ensure the game runs smoothly and provides a great user experience. Their work often involves problem-solving, optimizing code for performance, and debugging issues throughout the game development process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a video game software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Video Game Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (typically in C++, C#, or Python), a solid grasp of computer science fundamentals, and a relevant degree such as computer science or software engineering. Experience with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems (e.g., Git), and possibly certifications in game development tools are highly beneficial. Creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills that help engineers adapt to rapidly changing design requirements and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Mastering these skills ensures efficient development cycles, high-quality gaming experiences, and successful teamwork in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges video game software engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

Video Game Software Engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as managing complex codebases, ensuring optimal performance across different platforms, and integrating new features without introducing bugs. Collaboration with designers, artists, and QA testers is essential, which requires strong communication skills and adaptability. Additionally, tight deadlines and evolving project requirements can add pressure, making effective time management and problem-solving abilities crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Video Game Software Engineer vs Game Developer?

AspectVideo Game Software EngineerGame Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; programming skillsBachelor's in Computer Science, Game Design, or related; programming and design skills
Work EnvironmentGame studios, tech companies, independent projectsGame studios, freelance, indie development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in industry; focuses on software developmentBroader term; includes design, storytelling, and programming

While both roles involve programming and work within the gaming industry, a Video Game Software Engineer primarily focuses on coding, system architecture, and technical implementation. A Game Developer often encompasses a broader scope, including game design, storytelling, and project management. The roles overlap significantly, but the engineer is more technically specialized in software development.

How much does a video game software engineer make?

A video game software engineer's salary varies based on experience, location, and company size, but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level engineers may earn less, while experienced developers with specialized skills or working at major studios can earn higher salaries and bonuses.
More about Video Game Software Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Video Game Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Video Game Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Video Game Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $154,643 per year, or $74.3 per hour.

Senior Advanced Software Engineer

LNW Gaming, Inc.(KAC)

Chicago, IL • On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

As a Senior Advanced Software Engineer at Light & Wonder, you will be a key contributor within a collaborative, global engineering team focused on delivering robust, innovative technology solutions to support both internal systems and customer-facing products. You will drive innovation and quality in slot game development through expert-level software engineering.

Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, test, and maintain slot game software.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and implement features.
  • Ensure software quality through code reviews, testing, and compliance with platform standards.
  • Provide technical guidance and support to junior engineers.
  • Document software designs and processes.
  • Stay current with industry trends and technologies.
  • Lead technical initiatives and mentor junior engineers.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of development processes.
  • Any other duties assigned.
Qualifications
  • 10+ years of professional software development experience.
  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field.
  • Experience in the gaming industry preferred.
  • Expert in C++ and/or C#.
  • Knowledge of Godot and other game engines.
  • Exposure to Windows and Linux platforms and video drivers.
  • Strong understanding of game development frameworks.
  • Proficient with debugging and profiling tools.
  • Excellent problem‑solving and communication skills.
  • Ability to lead and mentor team members.
Compensation

Targeted pay range: $150,000 – $172,000. Total compensation may include applicable incentive compensation such as an annual performance bonus. Actual compensation packages are based on factors unique to each candidate, including skill set, depth of experience, work geography, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Benefits

Eligible for company-sponsored benefits, including healthcare, dental, vision, paid time off, a generous 401(k) plan, tuition assistance, and additional benefits.

Location & Work Arrangement

This is a hybrid role based in our Chicago studio. Team members are expected to be in the office 4 days a week to support collaboration and studio culture.

Physical Requirements

The employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, bend, use hands, operate a computer, and have specific vision abilities for close and distance vision, and to adjust focus while using computer and business equipment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Light & Wonder is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

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